Design inspiration from around the world

Text by Lookbox Living Inspiration can be found everywhere. It can be gleaned from the spaces we spend the most time in every day, where we hang out on weekends, and where we travel to on holiday. More and more, cafes, spas and hotels are becoming popular places to find inspiration – whether it’s for the luxury of the experience, the relaxed vibes, or even the bold and unconventional design ideas that make us go “Now, why didn’t I think of that?” or “Perhaps I can replicate that same look or feel for my own home!” Here are five destinations in Singapore and the world that have got us inspired.

Birds Of A Feather Singapore

#1 THE LOOK: A LUSH GARDEN Those who love nature and the idea of being surrounded by greenery should take a leaf out of this eatery’s book. Reminiscent of a sunlit aviary, the interior of Birds Of A Feather is constructed largely out of wood, decorated with quirky furnishings, and awash with sunlight that streams in from two large air wells. The owners personalised the space with plenty of leafy plants and a handcrafted lighting installation made of bulbs and copper pipes. Pendant lamps shaped like puffy clouds give the space with a playful, child-like vibe.  

KARA Cafe & Dessert Bar Singapore

#2 THE LOOK: A FEMININE LOFT For bright and family-friendly interior spaces, KARA Cafe & Dessert Bar offers the right atmosphere with muted pink and earthy peach hues conjuring a soothing, happy mood. The designers from Quarters Design Studio balanced this out with mirrors, grey shades and copper tones to give the space a more sophisticated edge. Stretching across the walls on one side, a commissioned artwork mural by Mark Wee offers a focal point and helps to anchor the space.  

Severin’s – The Alpine Retreat Lech am Arlberg, Austria

#3 THE LOOK: A LUXURIOUS LOG CABIN If rustic log cabins are your kind of thing, take inspiration from the mountain chalets of Severin’s – The Alpine Retreat. Built using ancient Tyrolean wood, stone and copper, these cabin suites are designed to keep you warm without compromising on modern technological comforts. The interior is decked out with Minotti furnishings, Wittmann beds, and iPad lighting controls. Hidden sound systems, Amazon Prime and Maxdome movies provide occupants with entertainment on cosy nights in front of a log fireplace.  

Mandala House Bali, Indonesia

#4 THE LOOK: ISLAND GETAWAY A swim-up bar simply shouts “I’m on holiday!” so wouldn’t it be great if your pool at home is designed with one? This luxurious villa in the Canggu area of Bali, known as Mandala House, even has a separate glass-bottom swimming pool and a basement cinema. On the ground level, the spacious open-plan living area comprises a dining room, an open-concept kitchen and a cosy sunken lounge, each occupying its own space but unified through a distinctive style.  

Jackalope Hotel Merricks North, Australia

#5 THE LOOK: SMOOTH AND SLEEK Black interiors can look incredibly sexy. The magic lies in the materials, as exemplified by guest rooms at Jackalope Hotel. Charred timber accent walls are balanced with exquisite marble, glass, and brass. A Japanese-style bath set in the middle of the room heightens the atmosphere and elevates the sense of comfort and luxury. Bathroom fittings gleam with a gold finish, contrasting beautifully against the dark background.